The World of Software Developers: How Many Types Are There?
If you have a tech company, you probably have a project in mind and consider hiring an external provider to develop an application that temporarily provides the staff augmentation you need.
But before you start searching, there’s a crucial point to consider: what type of programming service you need. Why? Because in programming, different types of developers focus and specialize in specific areas. For instance, if you want to develop a video game, a web developer may not be your best option.
If you’re not familiar with the industry, this categorization might seem confusing but don’t worry. Below, you’ll learn about the types of developers that exist and the tasks each one performs. But let’s start with a general principle…
What is a Developer?
A developer is an expert in writing code. In other words, they are responsible for designing the sequence of instructions that lead a computer system to perform a specific action.
The primary tool that represents what a developer does is programming languages. Additionally, a developer can specialize in various branches of computing. Web development or software development are some of the most well-known.
There is no “official” list of types of developers. One of the main reasons is that technology continues to evolve, resulting in new roles and specializations emerging all the time. In this article, we’ll review six of the most common types of developers today.
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1. Front-end Web Developer
A front-end developer focuses on the user interface and experience of a website—the part of the application that users interact with. They use their skills to control the look and feel of a site, working on design, responsiveness, and aesthetics.
Front-end developers often rely on JavaScript to create responsive experiences for users. They are typically familiar with JavaScript libraries and frameworks that can accelerate the creation of dynamic, client-oriented applications.
The front-end developer works to improve website performance, optimizing images, JavaScript, and markup so the loading time in browsers is faster. Most front-end developers also focus on search engine optimization and website accessibility.
2. Back-end Web Developer
On the opposite side, a backend developer works with the part of the application that users cannot see. Their work is based on the design, implementation, functional logic, scalability, security, and performance.
A back-end developer creates server-side applications that usually require expertise in web server software, databases, and the operating systems they run on.
These programmers often collaborate with front-end developers to create a final application. They work as a team since they are two sides of the same coin.
In all cases, it’s essential to hire vetted developers, but in this particular case, experience is even more critical. Both aspects need each other to function, so you must be sure to find the ideal candidates for the job.
3. Full-Stack Web Developer
A full-stack developer performs the roles of both front-end and back-end developers. This means they know all aspects of the application. Their profile should combine creative and design skills with strategic thinking and analytical abilities, as well as technical knowledge in programming and web development.
The full-stack developer is one of the most in-demand professions today. They are tech generalists, but it doesn’t mean they need to be the best at each technology; rather, they should have a solid understanding of how each part contributes to the final product and how all the pieces fit together.
4. Mobile Application Developer
The term “application” covers a lot of ground in software development. From desktop to web, applications are the tools that perform tasks for end users, and their creation requires a specialized developer.
Mobile application developers are familiar with software development kits (SDKs) and related tools used to create apps for a device’s operating system, such as Apple’s iOS or Google’s Android.
5. Desktop Software Developer
Desktop developers create software applications that run on personal computers and workstations for specific operating systems, such as Microsoft’s Windows, Apple’s macOS, Google’s Chrome OS, and more.
In simpler terms, a software developer is responsible for creating the resources that allow a computer’s operating system to manage the programs and applications with which users carry out various tasks.
Thanks to a software developer, you can play a game on your PC, watch movies, create spreadsheets, use the browser, or make presentations with images and sound, among many other activities.
6. Game Developer
Game developers have a wide range of skills. Their software can run on computers, mobile devices, consoles, or web browsers. Game genres vary, including military or sports simulation, first-person shooters, strategy, or role-playing games.
In a world of games connected to the Internet, game developers face server and database requirements as demanding as those of the busiest e-commerce sites. Additionally, they often have experience in 3D rendering tools and other animation-related programs.
Developers Everywhere
This article provides a glimpse into some developers and their main functions. Even so, many play more than one role, and most are familiar with multiple programming or scripting languages.
Remember that before diving into the challenge of hiring vetted developers, it is essential to have a deep understanding of the goal of the software you want to develop. It’s also important to ask the company you plan to hire if they handle the type of programming you need to ensure they deliver a product tailored to your needs.